The MSc in Radiometrics will teach you a broad range of detector technologies for measuring ionising radiation that are widely used in nuclear-related industries, equipping you for a career in any industry involving radiation and radiation detectors.
Introduction
Teaching will cover basic radiation principles, the use of detection systems and associated instrumentation applications, and modelling. There’s a strong focus on practicals and laboratory-based techniques.
The MSc in Radiometrics will teach you a broad range of detector technologies for measuring ionising radiation that are widely used in nuclear-related industries. It has a strong emphasis on practical laboratory skills using the state-of-the art equipment in our teaching laboratories, complementing the theoretical knowledge and advanced modelling skills you will learn. Many modules are also taken by participants from industry as part of their Continuing Professional Development, so you will have opportunities to learn first hand about what it’s like to work at some of the UK’s leading employers in the sector.
The project during the summer will give you a chance to conduct individual open-ended research under expert supervision. You’ll be able to carry out the project, often in industry, making you even more employable in sectors such as nuclear power, medicine, environmental protection, oil and mining, and health and safety.
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for students with first degrees in physical sciences and engineering who are looking for a career in sectors such as nuclear-related industries, healthcare, security, radiation protection and environmental monitoring, as well as further study.
What you'll learn
Advanced laboratory practical skills
Computer modelling skills
Theoretical knowledge related to detector technologies used for measuring ionising radiation in a wide range of employment sectors
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
The programme consists of a number of one-week basic modules and their associated applied modules, which you can select to best meet your needs.
To gain your MSc qualification you must complete your dissertation and project (these are compulsory) and your chosen modules, totalling 180 credits.
Students who study part-time will complete all the taught modules, then the applied modules, followed by the final dissertation and project.
Compulsory modules
HIGH RESOLUTION GAMMA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS804)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
This module provides a detailed introduction to the principles and applications of high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry. The module aims to develop a theoretical knowledge of all aspects of high resolution gamma-spectrometry using germanium detectors. The module is supported by practical work to apply the principles in an authentic manner.
ALPHA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS806)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
Alpha spectrometry is widely used in environmental monitoring and nuclear-related industries. This module provides an introduction to the underlying theoretical principles and practical aspects of alpha spectrometry. These include of the origins of alpha emitters; the interaction of alpha particles with matter and the consequences for alpha spectrometry; an introduction to sampling strategies and spectrum analysis techniques; and commonly used chemical separation procedures and methods of source preparation. There is a strong emphasis on practical laboratory work using modern industry-standard alpha spectrometers in which key concepts covered in the lectures are demonstrated.
NEUTRONS: DETECTION AND MODELLING (PHYS807)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
This module covers the principles of neutron detection and measurement. It provides an introduction to neutron measurement, Monte Carlo modelling and analysus. The module focuses on the practical and theoretical knowledge of neutrons, their interaction with materials and their detection.
STATISTICS (PHYS809)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: whole session
This modules provides a theoretical and practical understanding of the statistical principles involved with radiation detectors.
RADIATION PROTECTION AND DOSIMETRY (PHYS810)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
This module provides an introduction to the basicprinciples involved in radiation protection and dosimetry including biologicalaspects of being in a radiation environment. Learning in lectures is supportedby laboratory practical work.
RADIATION SHIELDING (PHYS820)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
To introduce the subject of radiation shielding and illustrate solutions to the particle transport equation in the context of Monte Carlo and deterministic transport codes. Simple shielding methods will be compared with sophisticated complex calculations in order to familiarise students with the essential concepts. As well as the core material, the course has four external lecturers who are experts in their respective fields. The use of Monte Carlo and Deterministic Codes will be presented in the context of industry needs and requirements. Shielding applications and the shielding design process will be discussed.
APPLIED HIGH RESOLUTION GAMMA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS824)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
To carry out further detailed work on aspects of high resolution gamma spectrometry
APPLIED ALPHA SPECTROMETRY (PHYS826)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
In this module an open-ended problem has to solved, requiring the application of knowledge and understanding acquired in the pre-requisite module PHYS806 (Alpha Spectrometry). The problem involves the detailed analysis and interpretation of a complex alpha-particle energy spectrum, but there is a twist!
APPLIED NEUTRONS: DETECTION AND MODELLING (PHYS827)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
To carry out further detailed work on aspects of neutron detection.
STATISTICS, DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS (PHYS829)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: whole session
This modules provides a theoretical and practical understanding of the statistical principles involved with radiation detectors.
APPLIED RADIATION PROTECTION AND DOSIMETRY (PHYS830)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: whole session
To carry out further detailed work on aspects of radiation protection and dosimetry.
RADIATION SHIELDING ASSIGNMENT (PHYS840)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
To introduce the subject of radiation shielding and illustrate solutions to the particle transport equation in the context of Monte Carlo and deterministic transport codes. Simple shielding methods will be compared with sophisticated complex calculations in order to familiarise students with the essential concepts. As well as the core material, the course has four external lecturers who are experts in their respective fields. The use of Monte Carlo and Deterministic Codes will be presented in the context of industry needs and requirements. Shielding applications and the shielding design process will be discussed.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
During Semester two you will start work on your dissertation, PHYS843, which should be submitted before starting work on your project over the summer.
Compulsory modules
GAMMA-RAYS: DETECTION AND MODELLING (PHYS805)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
To give a practical and theoretical knowledge of gamma ray detection using scintillation, semiconductor and gas detectors to use a modelling code to predict detector performance.
NUCLEAR INSTRUMENTATION (PHYS808)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
This module provides an introduction to the basic electronics and electronic instrumentation used in nuclear measurements. The focus is on the use of fast timing units to measure to the time resolution of semiconductor detectors.
APPLIED GAMMA RAY: DETECTION AND MODELLING (PHYS825)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
Further topics in gamma rays: detection and modelling based on the knowledge gained in PHYS805 and an information search. This will concentrate on applications including medical and industrial uses. The written report, which will be assessed by two examiners, will cover this work and the solution to an agreed applied radiometrics problem involving the use of gamma-ray detectors.
APPLIED NUCLEAR INSTRUMENTATION (PHYS828)
Credits: 7.5 /
Semester: semester 2
To carry out further detailed work on aspects of nuclear instrumentation.
DISSERTATION FOR THE MSC IN RADIOMETRICS (PHYS843)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: whole session
To write a short dissertation on a radiometrics topic. To apply the radiometrics knowledge gained in more than one radiometrics module to a problem not involving practical work.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
Compulsory modules
PROJECT (PHYS841)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: whole session
To carry out a practical project on a radiometrics topics. To apply the radiometrics knowledge gained during the programme to a practical problem.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
You will be taught through a mixture of lectures, practical laboratory work, computer modelling classes, supervised project work and will carry out private study.
How you're assessed
A range of methods will be used for assessments, including exams, coursework essays, computer assignments and practical laboratory work. You will also complete a dissertation and write a report on your project work.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Department of Physics is a major centre for research, offering an exciting and rigorous environment to study in. Some of your teaching will be carried out in our award-winning teaching facilities, the Central Teaching Laboratory, for practical lab work.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
What students say...
I would say the love of learning was the most enjoyable part of university. Science and maths were always an interest of mine and it was a joy to learn the inner working of the universe but it wasn’t all lectures and exams. There was a healthy amount of practical work which involved setting up and recording experiments to learning a range of programming, there was always something there to spark an interest and make you want to learn more.
This course will equip you with the necessary specific skills for a career in any industry involving radiation and radiation detectors. You will also develop valuable transferrable skills for other industries or to go on to further study.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Previous graduates have begun careers in academia and other research environments, in industry (for example in the nuclear and nuclear related industries), in financial services, health services, the scientific civil service and further education both in the UK and abroad.
Meet our alumni
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
Oscar Shedwick, MSc Radiometrics: Instrumentation and Modelling 2019
What course are you currently studying? Radiometrics: Instrumentation and Modelling MSc Why did you choose undergraduate/postgraduate study at the University of Liverpool? When looking at universities to attend I looked for a few things, one was the attitude of the staff present at the open day and interviews, second was talking to the students around […]
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£12,500
Part-time place, per year
£6,250
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£28,300
Part-time place, per year
£14,150
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year. The part-time fees are based on a course duration of two years. Fees may vary on a pro-rata basis for alternative part-time course durations.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a physical science, or a closely related subject. Relevant industrial experience can be an alternative, subject to references.
We also encourage applications from those from non-traditional backgrounds, for example with relevant industrial experience, in lieu of a degree. Each application will be assessed on its own merits and subject to references.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
other
IELTS
IELTS 7.0 overall with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT
100 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
130 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic
69 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
75 overall, with no skill below 60
PSI Skills for English
C1 Pass in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
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